When not to use the Subjunctive

We DO NOT use subjunctive to express facts, beliefs, truth, certainties or the obvious.
Creo que...  I believe/think (FOR A FACT) that...
No hay duda que...  There is no doubt that...
Es obvio/ cierto/ verdad/ hecho que.... It's obvious, certain, true, a fact that...
Yo sé que...(tú sabes que...) I know (FOR A FACT) or You know (FOR A FACT) that.. 

We also do not use the subjunctive when discussing people or things we know exist:

There is a secretary who can speak Spanish. Hay una secretaria que habla español.
I'm looking for the guy who has the key.
                           [I know there is such a guy-he exists.]
Busco al hombre que tiene la llave.
Copyright © 2000 Deborah R. Lemon. All rights reserved.